Relative Major and Minor
A pair of keys — one major, one minor — sharing the same key signature
Category
keys
Pronunciation
REL-ah-tiv MAY-jer and MY-ner
Origin
English
Length
109 words · 1 min read
About Relative Major and Minor
Every major key has a relative minor and vice versa. They share exactly the same set of notes but start on different degrees: the relative minor begins on the sixth degree of the major scale.
More keys terms
Diatonic
View all keysterms →Pertaining to the seven notes of a major or natural minor scale without chromatic alteration.
ChromaticPertaining to notes outside the prevailing key or diatonic scale.
Key SignatureThe set of sharps or flats at the beginning of a staff indicating the key
Circle of FifthsA diagram arranging all twelve major and minor keys by ascending perfect fifths, showing their key-signature relationships.
ModeA type of scale defined by a specific pattern of tones and semitones, historically derived from medieval church music.
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v1 · 09/04/2026Browse all terms →